Dining
Food is at the center of all activities in Greece and it is easy to understand why. The Greek cuisine, Mediterranean at heart and influenced by their Turkish neighbors, is fresh, honest, filling and absolutely delicious. Whether you are in for a tour of the best Greek Tavernas in town, looking for the tastiest gyros or want to try the new Greek cuisine, you might adjust to the local rhythm and spend a lot of time around the table. In Athens and in Greece in general you can eat at any time of the day and late at night. Tavernas and Ouzerias (where you can drink local cocktails and usually hear traditional music) are also a key place for social life.
Samot/Shutterstock.comThe Old Tavern of Psaras
The "Old Tavern of Psaras," Plaka's oldest restaurant, is a beloved institution that has welcomed diners since its establishment in 1898. Housed in two charming, old stone mansions, the tavern specializes in serving authentic and delicious traditional Greek cuisine. Beyond the quaint indoor setting, visitors can also enjoy their meal on the large, tree-shaded open terrace, providing an enchanting dining experience that embodies the essence of Plaka's rich history and culinary traditions.
shutterdandan/Shutterstock.comTo Kati Allo
To Kati Allo is a simple family owned tavern in the area next to the new Acropolis museum. A real tavern, with a friendly staff and which is open so late Plaka's waiters may come and keep you company. It is very popular amongst local: always a good indication in touristic cities like Athens.
Valery121283/Shutterstock.comSpondi
Visitors describe the upscale Spondi is the best restaurant in Athens — and in Greece. The restaurant's French chef has put together the menu and has successfully cultivated a renowned wine cellar. Simplicity is the motto at this award winning restaurant.
Denizo71/Shutterstock.comAvocado
Finding a vegetarian restaurant in this meat loving country might not be the easiest, but Avocado is a great option for vegetarian food. The products are with no added preservatives and they try to use as much organic food as possible. The food here is healthy, fresh and tasty and Avocado is well worth a visit even if you prefer meat dishes.
Yoav Aziz/unsplash.comGostijo Kosher Restaurant
Gostijo is Athens's first kosher restaurant. Their specialities are Sephardic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Kosher cuisine served in a lovely atmosphere. You can also hear some live music on some evenings and on location, you'll find a Kosher mini-market in case you need it.
Jeff Velis/PixabayOroscopo
Oroscopo is centrally located just opposite of the Divani Caravel Hotel on the square. Enjoy their uncomplicated and modern Greek, Italian and Mediterranean menu for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food tastes great and all at a great price. Take a seat at their terrace to make the best of the place.
bonchan/Shutterstock.comVezené
Vezené is a contemporary restaurant offering wood-fired Greek regional dishes and seafood. Try such exquisitely prepared delicacies as Wagyu carpaccio starter, lamb chops, pluma ibérica and Wagyu sirloin for mains. Great exclusive experience for a special occasion.
hlphoto/Shutterstock.comPiazza Duomo
Even in Athens you can feel the call of Italy. At Piazza Duomo you can enjoy Italian classics while savoring great drinks and cocktails. A great place to drop those shopping bags and take a break.
Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.comCTC Urban Gastronomy
Do not let the prices put you off from trying CTC! It is a unique and peculiar experience you can only live there. The food is prepared with care and obvious passion, and presented in a way that is borderline art. And despite it being a fine dining place, CTC managed to keep its simplicity and it is a very relaxd place where the staff and chef are more than willing to spend some time with you.
Semen Kuzmin/Shutterstock.comCinque
Cinque is the perfect spot for a tasting of Greek dips, olives, cheese and varieties of artisanal olive oils. Order a platter of cheese, panini, bruschetta or other seasonal dishes if you are already certain of what you like. Moreover, have a glass of the great red, rose or white wines this place has in stock.
leonori/Shutterstock.comLithos
Lithos serves meze, salads and grilled dishes in a rustic venue with a gorgeous terrace. Great relaxed atmosphere for dinner with reasonable prices.
hlphoto/Shutterstock.comJaipur Palace
Jaipur Palace sits close to the Grand Hyatt Hotel. The restaurant serves tasty and authentic Indian tandoori dishes, fluffy rice and fragrant naan bread. There is also a substantial menu selection for vegetarians, as well as those who prefer their meals with a spicy touch.
Dave Heaton/Shutterstock.com